Autism in Long Beach Hosts Second Annual Bully Free Zone Picnic

On June 3, 2012 from 12pm to 5pm, Autism in Long Beach, along with Councilman Steven Neal (9th District) and ASK Long Beach (asklongbeach.org), host the “Bully Free Zone 2” picnic in Houghton Park’s Skate Park in Long Beach. The Bully Free Zone (BFZ) is an annual event that aims to bring the community together and raise anti-bullying awareness.

With the rise in reports of bullying, it is important that people of all ages are aware of not only the types of bullying, but also how to prevent or approach it. BFZ is a chance for all families of all abilities to interact and have fun. “It will give our special needs kids and those without special needs an opportunity to play and see how much they really have in common,” says Jane Tipton, founder and CEO of Autism in Long Beach.

The BFZ picnic is a collaborative effort with volunteers, vendors and sponsors and is free to the public. Some of the activities include, but are not limited to: “Pseudo” Wrestling, up to 10 skate and sports demos, arts and crafts and a cool-down area for overstimulated children. With the help of sponsors, Autism in Long Beach is also able to provide 200 free lunches to the first 200 children. The event will also have authors and speakers who will share their experiences with bullying and offer their suggestions on how to handle it.

About Autism in Long Beach – Autism in Long Beach provides awareness, resources, and support for families on the spectrum. The goal is to raise community awareness and inclusion for the families in Long Beach and surrounding areas. www.autisminlongbeach.org

ASK Long Beach – Action Sports Kids Foundation is a non-profit in Long Beach, California dedicated to providing youth an alternative to the streets and gangs through sports, education and the arts. www.asklongbeach.org